Q: You seem to play the game with respect. Are you a student of the game?

A: A little bit. I learn something about the game every day. I try to respect my coaches and teammates.

Q: Do you watch a lot of baseball on TV?

A: I’m not a huge fan of any one team. I like to watch hitters like Bryce Harper and Mike Trout. I like the young, energetic guys.

Q: You’re headed to UCLA. How did you choose the Bruins?

A: UCLA has been my dream school since eighth grade. Both my parents went to UCLA.

Q: What other schools did you consider?

A: San Diego State, USD, UC Irvine, Arizona and Stanford were among my final choices.

Q: Sounds like academics are important to you?

A: Yes. People expect Asians to be smart. I’m OK in the classroom, But I have to work at it. I’ve learned that hard work pays off on the field and the classroom.

Q: The Major League Baseball draft is coming in June. Are you thinking about that?

A: It’s in the back of my mind. This is my senior year, so I’m trying to have fun, win a CIF championship. I try not to see the scouts in the stands, but I can’t deny it, I peek in the stands once in a while.

GOSUKE KATOH

School: Rancho Bernardo

Born: 1994 in Mountain View, Calif.

Year: Senior

Sports: Baseball

Accomplishments: All-Palomar League, All-San Diego Section

QUICK HITS

Favorite ballpark played in: Petco Park

Least favorite ballpark played in: Valhalla High because the wind blows so hard

Type of bat used: Easton S2. It’s heavy, unloaded, and I can control the barrel

Type of glove used: Slugger. It’s only available in Japan

If you could play with any shortstop in history who would it be? Ozzie Smith

What would the rest of your dream infield be? Prince Fielder at first and Miguel Cabrera at third